Step into the fire.
This private raku session is a hands-on, high-heat ceramics experience where you will participate in the full raku firing process from start to finish. Designed for small groups of up to six participants, this workshop takes place in Alex’s backyard and garage studio in Denver, creating an intimate and immersive environment.
Participants may bring their own bisque-fired pieces or select from a curated collection of vessels that Alex has created specifically for raku firing.
What We’ll Do
Together, we will:
- Review raku safety and firing fundamentals
- Prep and glaze your pieces
- Explore a variety of glaze options and surface techniques
- Load the kiln together and fire it up
As the kiln climbs to temperature, we will experiment with microwave raku, giving everyone the opportunity to create additional small pieces and explore alternative firing techniques while we wait.
Once the main pieces reach temperature, Alex will guide you through the dramatic and transformative part of the process:
- Removing pieces from the kiln at red heat
- Reduction firing
- Applying finishes such as horse hair, feathers, and other organic materials
- Exploring crackle, carbon trapping, and post-firing effects
Every step is guided, explained, and experienced together.
What Makes This Special
Raku is unpredictable, dynamic, and deeply collaborative with fire and atmosphere. No two pieces are ever the same. This session is perfect for:
- Potters looking to explore alternative firing techniques
- Artists wanting to experiment with surface and flame effects
- Friends or small groups seeking a creative and memorable experience
- Those curious about fire-based ceramics without committing to a full course
Because of the nature of raku, pieces will be cool enough to take home the same day.
What’s Included
- Kiln firing and fuel
- Glazes and finishing materials
- Access to microwave raku experimentation
- Hands-on instruction through the entire process
Whether you bring your own bisqued work or choose one of Alex’s raku-ready vessels, you will leave with a completely unique, fire-marked piece and a deeper understanding of this powerful ceramic tradition.
Come ready to work with flame, smoke, and transformation.
